A combination of summer weather, long evenings and the presence of visitors exploring our shops and galleries makes many of us think of art and the high caliber artists who live in and draw inspiration from the beauty of northeast Oregon. To immerse yourself in art, begin by taking part in the First Friday Art Walk in Baker City, Friday, June 5. Crossroads Carnegie Art Center welcomes Oregon glass artist’s Kevin Boylan, La Grande, Tom Dimond, Cove, and Andy Nichols, The Dalles, in “A Gathering of Glass.” An opening reception for the artists is held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The exhibit continues through June.

Another artist worth highlighting is Stewart Jones, of Joseph. Following are excerpts from an article that was posted on the website, www.theluxonomist.es. To read the entire article and view his exquisite work, please follow the link below.

Stewart Jones’ jewelry is hand-created using the time-proven techniques employed by Master Jewelers through the ages.

Combining ancient metallurgy techniques and elements of modern architectural design, Stewart Jones earned worldwide recognition in 1978 with his innovation in jewelry as a first place winner for his ring design in the DeBeers Diamonds International Awards presented in Paris, France. In 1980, he won Honorable Mention for his belt buckle design in the DeBeers Diamonds Today Awards USA. And in 1987, the Gold Information Center, New York presented him with a Certificate of Outstanding Design for a multi-layered pin design.

Stewart Jones began his career as an architecture student at the University of Oregon in Eugene, switching to the metals department after five years. He brought his understanding of design and functionality to the process of working with precious metals to create jewelry that was both beautiful and wearable.

Currently, Stewart Jones is also one of a handful of elite Guillocheurs in the world using an original, hand-turned, period rose engine preserved and used in the manner of Peter Karl Faberge. His authentic, restored and fully functional Early to Mid-Victorian (Romantic to Grand Period) antique Swiss rose engine was manufactured circa 1860 in Le Locle, Switzerland by A. Uhlinger.”

After owning his own shop in Portland, Oregon, then expanding into a jewelry and art gallery in Lake Oswego, he relocated with his wife to the small mountain town of Joseph (pop.1050) in 1999. The Culture Trip website recently designated Joseph one of The 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Oregon, and Stewart Jones one of The 8 Most Notable Artists.

Stewart Jones Designs, 2 South Main Street, Joseph, is open to the public Thursday through Saturday, 10 – 5, year round. Stewart Jones’ studio is open for tours, and he is available for demonstrations on the Swiss rose engine when requested.